Pakistan Sets Conditions for Talks with Taliban Amid Rising Tensions

The Pakistani government has set new conditions for engaging in talks with the Taliban, demanding written assurances regarding counter-terrorism efforts and border management.

Pakistan’s Conditional Talks with the Taliban

Taher Andarabi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, announced that Islamabad is ready to engage in talks with the Taliban, but stressed that such discussions must lead to written commitments and verifiable actions in the fight against terrorism.

He expressed hope that the Taliban would independently fulfill their international obligations. Andarabi also stated that Pakistan requires assurances that Afghan soil will not be used to conduct terrorist activities against Pakistan. According to him, verbal guarantees are insufficient; Islamabad seeks written and verifiable assurances.

Pakistan’s Concerns Over TTP Activities

Andarabi urged the Taliban to prevent the activities of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Baloch Liberation Army from Afghan territory. He raised concerns that the actions of armed groups in Afghanistan pose a threat to Pakistan and called for practical measures to stop Afghan soil from being used against his country.

The spokesperson further mentioned India, stating that if Taliban activities are directed by a neighboring country to promote terrorism in Pakistan, Islamabad would have no choice but to recognize the Taliban government as a proxy force. He added that the Islamabad government is aware of India’s involvement in terrorism stemming from Afghan territory and possesses evidence in this regard.

Tense Pakistan-Taliban Relations Since 2021

The relationship between Pakistan and the Taliban has become increasingly strained since the group seized control of Afghanistan in August 2021. Islamabad accuses the Taliban of allowing the TTP to operate from Afghan soil. In contrast, the Taliban denies these accusations and accuses Pakistan of supporting its armed opponents.

Pakistan has also accused India of supporting the TTP and various Baloch groups, claiming that the country utilizes Afghan territory for anti-Pakistan activities, a charge that India has consistently denied.